E3 2009

[Guynemer]

Anybody watching this?

That Project Natal thing looks pretty amazing. The painting demonstration was just engrossing.

[Asher]

A new thread is apt.

Here's a summary of the Xbox 360 conference:

Beatles game demo, multiple singers now (3 mikes). A lot of time spent on this!
360 has some exclusive downloadable songs for this game apparently (at least All You Need is Love is ... proceeds go to Doctors without Borders)
Also Yoko Ono and Olivia Harrison on-stage
Paul Harrison and Ringo Starr on-stage! Trying to be funny. Trying.
All about showing rather than telling.
Announces no graphs will show 10 brand new games will be shown now that haven't been seen before.
New interface will be shown for online gaming (Home ish?)
First up, Tony Hawk. Thankfully this guy can talk, shows the very high-tech board with infra-red sensors, accellerometers etc. Plenty of difficultly levels to cater for all sorts of skills. Trailer comes up next. The board does look really slick. And the moves you do on them seem to allow you to go quite far into emulating manipulating your board, pretty cool.

Lame, my IGN feed got killed. Switching to G4.tv, which shows Modern Warfare 2 I think, gameplay (someone is playing)`

Two map packs will be released first on 360
SquareEnix up next. Showing the FFXIII demo running on 360 for the first time. As I predicted elsewhere, the game engine is already in development and even up and running, so the previous statement that the 360 version would be worked on only once the PS3 version was done is hereby overruled. They're showing a summons (Odin) not normally available this early but put in just for this presentation.

From here on only exclusives.
Mark Rein presents the first exclusive, an XBLA game called Shadow Complex. It's a room-based side-scroller - or it looks like it, but there is some depths on it actually, you can move into the depth a little sometimes it seems.
Joy Ride, a cartoony Trackmania like game shown next, using the avatars. Scrap that, he calls it a cart-racer. Available this winter. Tracks purchaseable separately?
Game shown next looks like Crackdown 2 or something similar. Looks good. Yep, Crackdown 2.
Left for Dead 2? A zomby game located down-south. Yep. Left 4 Dead 2, November 17, published by Valve.

Ubisoft up next. Conviction, clearly. Fisher, yes. No gameplay to be seen yet. Ah here it comes. Very hardcore now, very 24, very violent. Presentation is slick. Seems like Conviction, Beyond Good and Evil 2, Assasisn's Creed share a lot of tech now. Lot of climbing, but Sam is a much slower game still (allows for nice looking graphics, obviously, lots of lighting effects too). Sound is full of real-time effects. The whole geometry lights up red when you get hurt it seems, rather than a simple flat filter effect. Released this fall.

Forza 3 up next. They're going to show the actual game. Cockpit view confirmed, with free looking around. Lighting inside the car is still weak, but you can flip over! 400 cars / 50 manufacturers, gameplay rewind. Talking up the new community features now. Create and upload high-dev video. They're showing a bunch of cars doing a ballet, driven first by players, then the movie edited from within the game (camera angels, slow motion, etc.). Also one of the cars had a painted hood. Ships this October - ouch GT5 .

Bungie up next. ODST shown, starts with Killzone like intro of landing (Orbital Drop Shock Trooper, obviously. You're a rookie. Two sound suppressed weapons and a visor for low vision circuomstances. Refers to the old Halo 1 pistol, saying that the new one is cooler. Lot of tech ... someone in the G4 comments mentions Metroid Prime as an influence. That could definitely be right. There are some interesting audio flashbacks in the game at that point. Next bit of gameplay looks very familiar with flying enemies, charges to be set, etc. A ladder? Release date 22nd september.
But Bungie have another project to show, Halo Reach ... seems a replay of The Fall of Reach. 2010 release. ODST comes with a Reach multiplayer beta invitation. Too bad for Crackdown 2, but hopefully it can stand on its own legs now.

Alan Wake up next. Script written by a famous best selling author. Everything shown in-game engine. So far the graphics look good - great use of lighting and shadow, there's a darkness enemy that you can actually hurt with your flashlight. Final voice suggests part of these things are in dreams. They make a huge mistake in using a past tense narrative voice - when you're playing the game, you don't want that sense of fatality, that it doesn't matter what you do - you can only fail or not fail playing out the pre-set path and the end is already clearly known. Release Spring 2010.

Games end. Radio stations coming to 360, with radio.fm as an example.
Netflix browsing on 360 confirmed, with direct play.
UK premiere league stuff mentioned on Eurogamer.net repeated here.
Next, VideoLibrary will now be Zune Video. HD library will be upgraded to 1080p, no more downloading but now instant streaming, coming to 18 countries.
Next, you'll be able to share stuff with your friends, like the thing with the Sky deal in the UK. You see a Live party group of avatars, sitting in front of a TV, so you can watch stuff together and chat about it.
Next, Facebook partnership, full integration into xbox live. The Guild Star Felicia Day talks it up. It's very strongly integrated into the NXE, and you can hook up facebook accounts to xbox live accounts. You can basically see almost all the facebook stuff in the NXE - doesn't look too convenient or practical, but it gets more interesting - you can do screenshots from your games straight to facebook.
Also, Twitter integration! You can 'tweet' from your xbox, and watch the live twitters on your screen (scattered in textbox stuff). It's all coming to Xbox Live in the Fall update.

Don Mattrick coming up next. Kojima on stage, Metal Gear for 360. Don makes bad Metal Geal joke, probably by accident. Kojima speaks English, thankfully. Metal Gear Solid: Rising is underway and in development for 360. It's not a Solid Snake game, clearly. Raiden back in the saddle. Don says xbox library is finally complete.

Motion controller coming up! But of course, it's the camera stuff that has been leaked. But they seem to be pretty far ahead with the stuff - you see one on one motion capture for fighting, racing, and all sorts of stuff using voice recognition, code name is Natal and is basically 3d camera detection with voice recognition, face recognition, etc.. Will work with every Xbox 360 (obviously?) and seems to be integrated with the NXE as well. Also showed a skateboard that was scanned in and then used inot a game.
Spielberg brought on stage. Speech summary: Microsoft hasn't invented the wheel, it has invented the 'no wheel at all'

Now we get a live demo to show how far they are. Live demo shows NXE integration, and a type of full body breakout (Ricochet), where you can move to and fro and use all your body to hit (slam, kick, etc.) and bounce back balls, etc. Uses real physics. Pretty good and looks totally exhausting. I like that in a game. They say they'll be able to do this multi-player as well.
Next demo coming up: painting by throwing paint at the canvas. Doesn't look as interesting as the rest.

Final word there is interesting though: development kits are arriving with partners today.

Peter Molyneux up for the final bit it seems. I think he's going to announce a Natal game. Lionhead have been able to play around with this for three months. He's showing Milo, who is a virtual boy you can interact with. He recognises your emotions from your face, and they even do a trick where you draw something on a piece of paper and then give it to him virtually in a very clever way. You can interact with a pond of fish. Etc. There are a lot of ideas from Sony integrated here, but this 3d camera controller seems to be the real deal. My wife is excited about it. This demo is shown live to selected members of the press during E3.

Agreed that Project Natal looks awesome. Way, way more promise than the wiimote.

[Asher]

Forza Motorsport 3 screenshots:

http://forzamotorsport.net/en-us/media/images/default.htm?galleryid=280#/screenshot/434/

Looks utterly amazing. GT5 -- FAIL.

[Asher]

MS also announced downloadable games (Games on Demand):

[Asher]

http://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2009/06/microsoft-morphing-xbox-360-into-social-entertainment-hub.ars

Microsoft morphing Xbox 360 into social, entertainment hub

Microsoft kicked off this year's E3 by announcing the long-expected motion camera and the arrival of Facebook, Last.fm, Twitter, and more on the Xbox 360

Microsoft is hoping to set the stage for E3 by hosting the first press conference of the show, and while the company kept the majority of its presentation dedicated to games, it's clear that Microsoft wants to turn your 360 into a full-fledged entertainment hub. Last.fm is coming to your console, free with your Gold Xbox Live Subscription. The console's video service is being relaunched as Zune Video, and it will feature 1080p content that you don't have to load—you just choose your video and watch. Facebook is coming to the service, with integration for your Xbox Live avatar and even some games, such as the upcoming Tiger Woods. Twitter is also heading to Xbox Live. The motion-sensing camera, called Natal, is real, and Microsoft showed off how it is used to control the UI for the system, explaining that now anyone can play a game. Welcome to the social.

The motion-camera, which in fact does look functionally identical to the 3DV demo we previously wrote about, allows you to control games, try on virtual clothes using your own image, and even use hand-motions to buzz in while playing game shows. Voice commands? They'll be in there. Microsoft brought Steven Spielberg onto the stage to demo the technology, and his avatar moved in real time as he controled the UI. While many called this technology a gimmick before E3, everyone seems completely impressed by what's being shown here today. This isn't waving your hands around like the Wii, this is a very immersive technology tied to a very powerful console. The game demos look promising, including the ability to simply paint on a virtual canvas with your hands and voice commands. The sense of play is very Nintendo, and that's a high compliment for Microsoft.

In a slightly creepy twist, you'll no longer have to sign into your Live account; the system will know who is playing it by your face. Peter Molyneux showed off a game called Milo, where an animated character talks to you and you can talk back. Water shows your own reflection. You can draw a picture and show it to the television, "giving it" to a character who then interacts with the image. The level of interaction looks amazing.

The show also hyped a number of games, including The Beatles: Rock Band, which confirmed three-part harmonies and the ability to download entire albums as DLC. The songs "I Saw Her Standing There," "I Wanna Hold Your Hand," "I Feel Fine," "Day Tripper," "Tax Man," "I am the Walrus," "Back in the USSR," "Octopus's Garden," "Here Comes the Sun," and "Get Back" are all confirmed. In a heart-warming twist, "All You Need is Love" will only be available via Xbox Live, and the proceeds from the song's sales will go to Doctors without Borders. All the hate from Sony fans will go directly to the comments.

Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr of course made a quick appearance, collected their paychecks, waved, and away they went. The star factor at this event is amazingly high.

Next up? Tony Hawk... well, hawked the new Tony Hawk: Ride, saying that it's going to feel just like riding a real skateboard; something that is sure to enrage the "why don't you just play a real guitar" set that's so vocal online. Until we have a chance to play for ourselves—and that's coming—it's easy to be skeptical about the board hardware that will come with the game. Modern Warfare 2 of course looks great and intense, as does Final Fantasy XIII, but that has as much to do with the sound system and theater as it does the games. We do know two maps for Modern Warfare 2 will hit Xbox Live first, as it seems like Microsoft getting the checkbook out was a theme of today's briefing.

Shadow Complex, an action/exploration title from Epic that's reminiscent of Metroid and Castlevania, was also shown, as was a cartoony racer called JoyRide. After that, the crowd finally got what it had been waiting for: the first details of Crackdown 2. Dead Rising 2 is exclusive to Xbox 360 and PC. Left 4 Dead 2 is likewise coming to Xbox 360 and PC. Splinter Cell Conviction? Yeah, that's exclusive to the 360, and it looks like it will feature some terrifically brutal context-sensitive kills. Forza 3 is coming in October, and if nothing else it looks like a car title that you'll want to play from the cockpit view; it's a stunning-looking game. Turn 10 makes some bold claims, as they talk about wanting to "win" the racing genre. They're clearly gunning for Gran Turismo 5 with this presentation, and the team unveiled an impressive high-definition video editor to show off your exploits on Xbox Live.

This was also the first time that footage from Halo: ODST had been shown, and it looks like the story will be told through the eyes of multiple soldiers, which seems like a smart bet. You'll be able to play the standalone expansion on September 22. That's not the end of Halo, as Halo Reach is coming in fall 2010. Of course, if you buy ODST you'll get an invite to the Halo Reach beta.

Alan Wake was shown in detail, and it looks absolutely amazing, with a heavy emphasis on using light to stay safe in the game. While sequels and more Halo may be exciting, this is what people came here for: to be turned-on by something that feels new. The game is coming in spring 2010, and is also exclusive to the Xbox 360.

While not an exclusive, Hideo Kojima revealed that Metal Gear Solid Rising is coming to the Xbox 360. This is Microsoft chipping away at the empire that was Sony, bringing yet another title that used to be known only on PlayStation platforms to the Xbox.

The conclusion? Microsoft has set the bar amazingly high for everyone else. Natal looks incredible, although it will take some real-world experience before we can completely believe the claims made by the presentation. The number of exclusives and well-loved properties is likewise impressive, although gamers are already voicing their anger at a sequel to Left 4 Dead being released so soon after the first game. In one swoop, however, Microsoft has revealed exciting exclusives, hyped games with exclusive or timed content on its system, given Xbox Live new life, and has perhaps even put the Wii on the technological defensive. That's from a stage show, however, and the question remains: how much of this will feel this real—and this good—once we get our hands on it?

[flash9286]

Did they give release date and price for Natal?

[Asher]

Nope

[DrSpike]

Again, Forza 3 looks amazing.

[flash9286]

EA just announced an online franchise mode for Madden 2010, looks cool.

[Asher]

Project Natal videos for those who've missed it. Awesome:

http://www.gametrailers.com/game/project-natal/11397

[Asher]

Marc Whitten open letter:

A Letter from Marc Whitten: Xbox LIVE at E3 2009

Dear Xbox LIVE Members,

Last week we announced that Xbox LIVE has reached a staggering 20 million active members, reinforcing that Xbox LIVE isn’t just an online gaming service; it’s a community. That’s why we’re committed to offering entertainment for everyone on Xbox LIVE, from the core gamers with us since the beginning, to our newest members just learning about all the fun of Xbox 360.

We took a great step toward that goal last November when we re-imagined the Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE with the New Xbox Experience.

I talked then about our commitment to innovation on LIVE, and today we continue to deliver on that promise as we showcase new blockbuster games, technologies and partnerships that will transform the way people think about home entertainment. With Xbox LIVE at the center of your living room, you can watch your favorite movies in instant on 1080p HD and 5.1 channel surround sound with Zune video, or update your Netflix instant Queue and share the fun with a virtual movie party.

You can take your entertainment experiences to the largest social network on the planet with Facebook on Xbox LIVE, and even post a snap shot of your favorite gaming moments through Facebook Connect. And with Twitter, you can stay connected and keep your social circle up to date by reading, posting and replying to tweets right on your Xbox 360.

And for music lovers like me, our partnership with Last.fm will bring personalized streaming radio stations right to your Xbox 360.

We’re also thinking globally, and delivering a custom experience from BSkyB, one of the biggest names in European home entertainment – bringing great local content and live football to our members in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

We’re excited about all the innovations we unveiled today, and I want to share some of the new gaming and community features coming to Xbox LIVE this fall:

•Games on Demand. Xbox LIVE has changed the way you play your games, and now we’re changing the way you access them, with the digital distribution of full Xbox 360 games. The Games on Demand channel will launch with a library more than 30 great games, from classic hits like “Mass Effect,� “BioShock� and “Assassin’s Creed,� to family favorites like “LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga� and “Sonic the Hedgehog.� You’ll have access to a wide variety of great games, downloadable in only a few hours and at the touch of a button. We’ve also added the option to purchase Games on Demand directly with your credit or debit card.
•Great games on Xbox LIVE and Xbox LIVE Arcade. Xbox LIVE Arcade is keeping the fun rolling all summer long. We are continuing our commitment to quality and innovation by delivering five weeks of downloadable blockbusters with the second annual Summer of Arcade – bringing you the biggest and best smash hits of the season including “Shadow Complex,� “Trials HD,� “Splosion Man ™,� “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles™ : Turtles in Time Re-Shelled,� and “MARVEL™ VS. CAPCOM® 2.� And of course I’m excited to see the launch of our beta season of “1 vs 100� today. I’m also already playing a ton of our newly announced game, “Joy Ride,� and I can’t wait for you to experience it this holiday.
•Avatar Marketplace. Since the launch of NXE, millions of Avatars have been created on Xbox LIVE, giving our members a whole new way to express themselves online, in games, and in their social experiences. Starting this summer, you will see some great new ways to make your Avatar truly your own. First, we heard loud and clear from you that you wanted to get new avatar items as awards when playing games, and I’m happy to announce support for in-game Avatar Awardables. Second, you’re going to see some great new options with animated Props and full costumes to add to your Avatar. Finally, we’re continuing that spirit of customization and self-expression with a virtual closet full of premium clothing and interactive props to download and purchase for your Avatar. Whether its game-inspired gear or the latest fashion trends, there will be creative options for everyone to enjoy. You’ll also be able to easily access the new Avatar Marketplace directly through the Avatar editor.
•User Ratings. We’re adding a five star rating system that lets you easily rate any content in the Games Marketplace. Now you’ll be able to show your support for your favorite games and Game Add-ons on Xbox LIVE and also quickly organize by user rating to find the community’s favorite content. This has been one of your most-requested features, and we’re very happy to bring it to you this summer.e
•Performance Updates. We know that the details also matter. That’s why we’re making a series of updates based on your feedback. First and foremost, the entire Xbox LIVE service is being upgraded for improved performance including better guide and friends access. Some other things we’ve done based on your feedback include revamping the friends sorting list, Achievement views and improving our matchmaking support. There’s always room to improve, and your input really matters to us…so keep it coming!
I’ve never been more proud to be a part of this team, and I truly believe that there’s never been a better time to be an Xbox LIVE member – there are more entertainment choices than ever before for our members. With today’s announcements, I can confidently say that an Xbox LIVE Gold Membership is hands down the best value in home entertainment, giving you exclusive access to Facebook, Twitter, Netflix, Sky, Last.fm, “1 vs 100 Live� beta, and the best gaming and entertainment network on the planet.

There’s much more to come, and you’ll hear even more details soon. But in the meantime, we hope you’re having as much fun as we are.

See you online,

Marc Whitten

[Nikolai]

New Monkey Island games(episodes) and after that a remake of the first game!

http://www.telltalegames.com/monkeyisland

[Asher]

Molyneaux's "Milo" project using Natal:

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/e3-09-lionhead-milo/50015

[OzzyKP]

Anybody watching this?

That Project Natal thing looks pretty amazing. The painting demonstration was just engrossing.

Is it up on YouTube?

[Asher]

I've linked to videos